Targeting tumor and bone microenvironment: Novel therapeutic opportunities for castration-resistant prostate cancer...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cancer Biology
• Microenvironment Research

Background:

• Standard hormonal therapy targeting the androgen receptor (AR) is initially effective for prostate cancer (PCa).
• Tumor progression leads to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), a significant clinical challenge.
• The tumor microenvironment (TME) and bone microenvironment (BME) are crucial in CRPC development, progression, and metastasis, particularly to bone.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent studies on the role of the TME and BME in CRPC with bone metastasis.
• To discuss the underlying mechanisms of TME and BME involvement.
• To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting the TME and BME in metastatic CRPC.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies.
• Analysis of mechanisms involving TME and BME in CRPC bone metastasis.
• Evaluation of therapeutic strategies targeting the TME and BME.

Main Results:

• The TME and BME facilitate CRPC progression and bone metastasis through complex cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions.
• Specific cellular and non-cellular components within the TME and BME support tumor cell survival, growth, and colonization in bone.
• Understanding these interactions reveals potential vulnerabilities for therapeutic intervention.

Conclusions:

• The TME and BME are critical regulators of CRPC bone metastasis.
• Targeting the TME and BME presents promising therapeutic avenues for managing advanced prostate cancer.
• Further research into these microenvironments could lead to novel treatment strategies for CRPC patients.